Fellow bus drivers come to aid of stricken colleague

For many Americans like Jesse Gonzales, having a major illness can wreak havoc on them financially.

SHARON ROTHMAN

For many Americans like Jesse Gonzales, having a major illness can wreak havoc on them financially.

Currently in the U.S., medical bills are the main causes for bankruptcy. Catherine Arnst of Business Week magazine reports, "Medical problems caused 62 percent of all personal bankruptcies filed in the U.S. in 2007, according to a study from Harvard researchers. And 78 percent of those filers had medical insurance at the start of their illness, including 60.3 percent who had private coverage."

A March 19 Pocono Record article by Beth Brelje conveyed, "A routine checkup changed Jesse Gonzales' life. The doctor delivered impossible news after the East Stroudsburg High School-North school bus driver, 46, had blood drawn.

"He (doctor) said, 'Look Jessie, you're dying. I don't know long, but you could drop anytime,'" recalls Gonzales. The shocking words didn't make sense. Other than a little tenderness in the ankle, he noticed no symptoms. His kidneys were operating at seven percent efficiency. Gonzales needed dialysis and a kidney transplant. The doctor called Gonzales' job and notified his boss that Gonzales was not allowed to drive a bus. That was in February."

In a moment's time, Gonzales found himself with a life-threatening affliction, no job and possibly no way to pay for his insurance; Which he could not live without.

Fortunately for people like him, communities many times rise to the occasion to help individuals in their time of need. East Stroudsburg Area School District North bus drivers pitched in and paid Gonzales' March insurance premium. His colleagues became part of that strong hold of hope for Gonzales. Within a month's time, one bus driver, Jimmy Johnson, organized a fundraiser to help collect much needed money for Gonzales' insurance. St. John's Church in Middle Smithfield donated its community room and help with providing many volunteers.

Johnson, who only knew Gonzales for a short time, said, "It struck a chord with me and I had to do something to help. It was just horrible what happened and I knew we all could do something. It took me a month of knocking on doors to rally local businesses to donate and get things together."

His efforts resulted in a full dinner for more than a hundred friends and family members who answered the call. The atmosphere was a celebration of life itself, rather than a somber occasion, with laughter and conversation abounding. While music played in the background, Irish dancers provided entertainment. Clowns did face painting and made balloon animals.

Lehman Township Supervisor Paul Menditto said, "I read about this in the paper. It was just a horrible situation. I knew I had to come and help."

Volunteers ran raffles. Even the winner of the 50/50 donated his winnings.

Johnson added, "We had a lot of locals give in a big way. All the food was donated by restaurants, including Petrizzo's, Pizzaro's, Uncle Sal's, Uncle Pete's Bagels, Coffee Rush and Arlington Diner, Vinny D's. In addition, Hollywood Tans, Diva Salon, The Gem & Keystone, Big A and Pangea were some of many that donated. I want to write a letter to thank every one for their help and get published in the paper."

As the ceremonies began, more than 20 bus drivers gathered in the front of the room to present Gonzales with the funds. A driver handed over an envelope and said, "First we would like to tell a story: After today's Mass (at St. John's) a parishioner who wishes to remain anonymous had generously donated the cost of one month's insurance premiums ($1,200).

"As far as tonight, we raised enough for three more months of insurance coverage. We hope this helps get you better and back behind the wheel soon."

The applause grew and many shed some tears while friends and family gave well wishes with hugs to Gonzales. The guest of honor was trying to compose himself as he was overwhelmed by the outpouring of generosity and tearfully gave a heartfelt "Thank you to every one for this."

St. John's Church on 5171 Milford Road, E. Stroudsburg is accepting any contributions in care of Jesse Gonzales. Call 570-223-9144 for further details.

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